What to bring from France: original souvenirs for special people

Flea market in France
From the author's personal archive
Photo: From the author's personal archive
France, a country of love, art and sophistication, known for its rich cultural heritage and remarkable gastronomic traditions. It is a place where true aesthetes can find countless options for non-trivial gifts — from exquisite art objects to wines, perfumes and fashion from world manufacturers

France is the kind of country from which everyone would like to receive a gift. Considering that next month will mark the start of a historic event — the opening of the Olympic Games in Paris and 16 million tourists are expected to come to France for experiences and souvenirs, let this article inspire them to find unique gifts.

If you too are looking for something really special for your loved ones, avoiding standard souvenirs such as magnets or t-shirts, this article will help you find unusual and original options that can be found just in France. Here you will find gift ideas that reflect true French culture and traditions.

Antiques and vintage items

France is famous for its antique markets and stores where you can find unique items from past eras. In Paris, you should visit Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen , one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world. Here you can find old books, furniture, jewelry and other antique items that make great gifts for history and vintage lovers.

A book about World War I in two volumes found at a flea market in France
Photo: From the author's personal archive

Local Wines and Liquors

France is known for its wine tradition. Instead of the standard bottle of wine, you can look to lesser-known but equally interesting varietals. For example, wines from regions that are not so famous outside of France but have their own special charm: wines from Jura, Savagnac or Beaujolais. You can also look out for French liqueurs such as Chartreuse  or Benedictine. Still, a bottle from the Bordeaux region is by no means a trivial gift.

Authentic Perfumes

France is the birthplace of perfumery, and in major cities like Paris, Grasse or Nice, you can find stores offering unique fragrances created by local perfumers. Visit Fragonard  or Serge Lutens , where you can find exclusive fragrances that are not sold outside of France.

Gastronomic Souvenirs

France is a foodie's paradise, so gastronomic gifts will always be in favor. However, instead of the usual cheeses and pates, you can pay attention to less banal options. For example, French truffles, mustard from Dijon, confit from unique fruits or lavender honey from Provence or rose petal jelly.

Rose petal jelly found in a supermarket in France
Photo: From the author's personal archive

Products from local artists

Supporting local artists is a great gift idea. Many French cities have art galleries and craft workshops where you can purchase unique handmade items. These can be paintings, ceramics, textiles or jewelry. Such a gift will not only be original, but will also support local creators.

Art found at a flea market in France
Photo: From the author's personal archive

Culinary Master Classes

What better gift for a culinary enthusiast than a master class in French cuisine? Many cooking schools in France offer short courses where you can learn how to cook traditional French dishes. For example, in Paris, the famous cooking school "Le Cordon Bleu " offers a variety of master classes that would make a great and unforgettable gift.

Lavender Products from Provence

Provence is famous for its lavender fields. Lavender products such as essential oils, sachets, soaps or candles are wonderful gift that will bring the scent and atmosphere of the southern French region.

Linen Textiles

France is one of the leading producers of linen products, especially in Normandy. Linen towels, napkins, tablecloths or linens would make a great gift that is not only beautiful but also practical.

Linen napkin
Photo: From the author's personal archive

French books

Bookstores in France offer a large selection of literature. You can find both ancient editions and modern books on a variety of topics. Especially interesting will be a gift in the form of a rare book or a graphic novel from a French author.

Exquisite tableware

Dishes from the Limoges manufactory
Photo: From the author's personal archive

France is famous for its porcelain and glassware. Products of famous French brands such as "Limoges" or "Baccarat " will be a wonderful and elegant gift that will decorate any home.

Glasses from "Baccarat"
Photo: baccarat.com

Fashion accessories from local designers

France is one of the centers of world fashion, so fashion accessories from local designers will be a great gift. These can be bags, scarves, hats, cards  or even shoes. It is worth paying attention to lesser-known brands offering original and quality products.

Selecting non-banal gifts from France requires a little more effort and research, but the result will be worth it. Whether you choose antiques, local delicacies, unique jewelry or handcrafted items, this gift will not only be a pleasant surprise but also a true symbol of French culture and tradition.

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